- This South Africa vs Canada prediction article for FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage breaks down form, key players, best odds and H2H meetings ahead of the clash.
- The match will be staged at the SoFi Stadium on Sunday June 28.
- Kickoff is at 10pm EAT.
After almost three weeks of thrilling group stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico, the world’s premier football showcase now heads into its most exciting chapter as the knockout phase kicks off this Sunday.
Co-hosts Canada and African representatives South Africa will make history on Sunday night when they become the first teams to contest a Round of 32 match at SoFi Stadium.
It will be a historic occasion for both nations, as each reaches the World Cup knockout stage for the first time.
ALSO READ: Switzerland vs Canada prediction: World Cup 2026 preview, team news, lineups & h2h
Canada, who were placed in Group B, collected four valuable points to finish second. They drew with Bosnia and Herzegovina before cruising to a 6-0 victory over Qatar.
However, Switzerland’s 2-1 win in their final group match denied the co-hosts the chance to play their Round of 32 tie at home, forcing them to travel instead.
In just their third World Cup appearance, the Reds will now be determined to put on a strong display in the knockout rounds and hope to continue their remarkable journey, with the possibility of making even more history under coach Jesse Marsch.
Standing in their way, however, are Bafana Bafana, who have emphatically silenced their doubters after many had written them off.
After losing their opener to Mexico, South Africa bounced back with a draw against Czechia before scripting history in their final Group A match.
Facing a formidable South Korea side, they secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory thanks to Thapelo Maseko’s decisive second-half goal.
ALSO READ: South Africa stun South Korea to seal historic World Cup knockout qualification
Having now proved they belong on the biggest stage, the 2010 World Cup hosts will aim for an even deeper run in their return to the tournament after a 16-year absence.
In just their fourth World Cup appearance, Hugo Broos’ side will be eager to make this campaign their most memorable yet.
What time will South Africa vs Canada match kick off ?
The encounter is scheduled for Sunday, June 28 at the SoFi Stadium, with kickoff slated for 10pm East African Time.
South Africa vs Canada team news
The major talking point for Canada revolves around captain Alphonso Davies, who has returned to full training after missing the group stage with a leg injury.
Jesse Marsch must decide whether to throw him straight into the XI or use him as a high-impact weapon off the bench.
South Africa receives a massive disciplinary boost as midfield general Teboho Mokoena returns to the starting lineup after serving his one-match yellow card suspension.
However, veteran playmaker Themba Zwane remains completely sidelined, serving the third and final match of his extended FIFA disciplinary ban following a direct red card against Mexico.
Bafana Bafana vs Canada Predicted Lineups
- Canada: Crepeau, Johnston, De Fougerolles, Cornelius, Laryea, Choiniere, Saliba, Ali Ahmed, Buchanan, David, Larin
- South Africa: Williams, Modiba, Mbokazi, Mudau, Okon, Mokoena, Sithole, Mbatha, Appollis, Makgopa, Maseko.
South Africa vs Canada head-to-head record and recent meetings
South Africa and Canada have only met on one previous occasion, with their friendly clash coming in the latter stages of 2007, and it was the former that won 2-0. Teko Modise netted a brace for South Africa to hand them the victory.
However, this will be their first competitive encounter and first FIFA World Cup meeting.
Current Form
- Canada: W–D–W–L–W
- South Africa: D–L–D–W–W
South Africa vs Canada prediction
Canada, with some solid experience sprinkled throughout their squad, come into this clash as the favorites to win and punch their ticket to the next round.
But South Africa have already proven their mettle and absolutely cannot be taken lightly. They are more than capable of springing a surprise, especially with a well-drilled side that boasts a sturdy defensive setup.
So expect goals in this one, though if Bafana Bafana opt for a deep, low block approach, we could very well be in for a tense, thrilling stalemate that drags all the way through regulation.
And do not be caught off guard if extra time minutes come into play on Sunday.
Read more about other World Cup teams in 2026 below:
Morocco national football team 2026
Argentina national football team 2026
Mexico national football team 2026
Spain national football team 2026
Brazil national football team 2026
France national football team 2026
Senegal national football team 2026